New Heat Illness Regulations in the Workplace

New changes to California’s heat illness prevention, as granted by OSHA, will be effective as of May 1st. As summertime rolls in and temperatures increase, California’s outdoor employees place themselves at a greater risk for heat illnesses. These new changes under the Occupational Safety and Health Act apply to all employees who work in outdoor environments such as those in agriculture, construction, landscaping, oil and gas extraction, as well as transportation and delivery of agricultural products and heavy materials – – And let’s not forget those food servers and bussers who serve guests outdoors; and especially those in the Palm Springs & desert areas!

Employers are required to prevent employee heat illnesses. According to these new regulations, employers must provide fresh water so each employee can drink at least one quart per hour. Encourage your employees to drink water and stay hydrated! Shade should also be provided to your employees who work outdoors in temperatures that exceed 80 degrees. Allow your employees to take a cool-down rest in the shade for at least 5 minutes to prevent heat strokes or other heat-related illnesses.

It’s the law. The safety of your employees is paramount to the wellbeing of your workforce. Issues involving heat illnesses not only affect the employees’ health but can create liability issues for the company as well. Make sure your employees are monitored for heat illness symptoms.

We can help create your IIPP. Every employer is required to have an effective Injury and Illness Prevention Program as well as drinking water in the workplace, first aid, and an emergency response. If you don’t have an IIPP, we can help create one for you.

We can train your managers on the new requirements. All supervisors and employers must be aware of their responsibilities and what actions to take if they see signs or symptoms of heat illness. We can help train managers on appropriate emergency responses, first aid requirements, and your OSHA 300 log.

Call us at (818) 845-5584 or email us at info@executivehrconsulting.com to learn more about the new changes to the law.